Ransomware as a Service (RaaS) and LockBit: What You Need to Know
Ransomware as a Service (RaaS) is a criminal business model that allows almost anyone to launch a ransomware attack. Cybercriminals called affiliates purchase ransomware tools from developers and then use them to extort victims for financial gain. This system has made ransomware more accessible, leading to an increase in attacks. Affiliates don’t need to be highly skilled — they just need to know how to distribute the malware and collect ransom payments.
RaaS has revolutionized the cybercrime landscape with well-known strains like LockBit thriving through this model. LockBit has gained a reputation for being one of the most effective and dangerous ransomware variants around.
LockBit: A Brief History
LockBit first appeared in 2019 and quickly established itself as one of the most dangerous ransomware variants on the market. It became known for its speed in encrypting files and its brutal “double extortion” tactics — threatening to both encrypt and leak sensitive data unless a ransom is paid.
While there have been additional variants, the primary iterations of LockBit have been:
- LockBit 1.0 released in September 2019
- LockBit 2.0 released in June 2021
- LockBit 3.0 released in June 2022
Over time, LockBit has evolved and become even more pervasive. In fact, it’s now considered one of the most notorious RaaS operations, consistently targeting large organizations and critical infrastructure. What sets LockBit apart is its adaptability. Even as authorities crack down on affiliates, the operators behind LockBit continue to develop more advanced versions of the ransomware, keeping it at the forefront of cybercrime.
Signs of a LockBit Attack
Detecting a LockBit attack early can make all the difference. These attacks typically begin with phishing emails or exploiting vulnerabilities in unpatched systems. Once the ransomware infiltrates a network, it spreads rapidly, encrypting files and rendering systems inoperable.
A key indicator of a LockBit attack is the sudden appearance of encrypted files, often with unusual extensions. Victims also receive ransom notes that typically demand payment in cryptocurrency to recover access to their files. LockBit attackers are known for being particularly aggressive in their demands, sometimes increasing the ransom amount if victims don’t pay quickly.
Additionally, network traffic spikes or data being unexpectedly sent to external servers can signal an attack in progress. Since LockBit is often deployed with speed, unusual activity like this should be addressed immediately to prevent further damage.
How to Defend Against LockBit
Preventing a LockBit attack requires both basic cybersecurity practices and advanced defense mechanisms. Employee training is a key component — phishing emails are still one of the main ways ransomware infiltrates organizations, so teaching staff to recognize suspicious messages can help prevent attacks from taking hold.
Keeping software and systems up to date is equally critical. Many ransomware attacks, including LockBit, exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. Conducting regular vulnerability assessments and patching systems promptly can go a long way in reducing risk.
Beyond prevention, organizations need tools to detect ransomware early. Solutions like endpoint detection and response (EDR) can alert security teams to suspicious activities, such as unusual encryption or file access patterns. The faster these signs are caught, the easier it is to contain the attack before it causes significant harm.
Finally, maintaining good backup practices is essential. Regularly backing up critical data and storing it offline ensures that even if a ransomware attack is successful the damage can be minimized. With reliable backups, organizations are less reliant on paying ransoms to recover their data.
Final Thoughts
LockBit, fueled by the RaaS model, poses a significant threat to organizations of all sizes. Its adaptability and effectiveness make it particularly dangerous. However, businesses can defend themselves by implementing comprehensive cybersecurity strategies — training employees, maintaining up-to-date systems, deploying detection tools, and ensuring data backups. Staying prepared and vigilant is the best way to stay ahead of this evolving cyber threat.
For more information on Cybersecurity risks, response and more, be sure to visit our SOC & Technology Consulting, Cybersecurity, and Forensic Examination pages, and don’t hesitate to contact Dave Hammarberg regarding our services.
About the Author
Mike joined McKonly & Asbury in 2022 and is currently a Senior Consultant with the firm. He is a member of the firm’s Internal Audit Segment, servicing clients in government and commercial segments.
